Monty Python creator John Cleese is in talks to appear in a pilot episode of an American sitcom.

The British actor and comedian is negotiating to feature in a new show called HMO.

Cleese is set to play Larry King, the medical director of a dysfunctional hospital.

Rather than a starring role, Larry King is described as a recurring character.

This ad hoc nature would allow Cleese to pursue other broadcasting avenues.

The plot for HMO will centre around the chaos caused by the American health insurance system.

Cleese has previously made guest appearances in Cheers and Third Rock from the Sun on American screens.

He is best known as part of the Monty Python troupe and for his Basil Fawlty character in Fawlty Towers.

The 61-year-old starred in and wrote A Fish Called Wanda for which he won an Oscar nomination.

His other film credits include Fierce Creatures and Clockwise.

Currently, Cleese is presenting a documentary series on BBC One called The Human Face.

He will also appear as Nearly Headless Nick in the upcoming Harry Potter movie adaptation.